Nuclear subs questions remain unanswered in push for Newcastle base

DEAR News Of The Area,

I AM appalled that lobbyists at Hunter Defence Conference (NBN News, 26 August) are pushing for a nuclear submarine base in Newcastle.

There has been no community consultation and no opportunity for Newcastle and Port Stephens residents to ask important questions about the proposal.

Firstly, nuclear-propelled submarines carry tonnes of highly enriched uranium – potentially explosive weapons-grade material. What are the risks for Newcastle residents in hosting boats loaded with such dangerous, radioactive material?

Secondly, nuclear subs eventually retire and need to be dismantled. Britain has taken 43 years to dismantle just one retired submarine. Currently, 23 disused nuclear subs are still stranded in UK ports – 16 at Devonport Dockyard, including 12 still loaded with irradiated reactor fuel – and seven at Rosyth Dockyard.

The UK Submarine Dismantling Project’s whole-life cost is estimated at £541.73 million in 2024-25 prices ($A 1.02 billion).

Will AUKUS subs present similar problems for Australian ports?

Will Newcastle become a nuclear submarine graveyard?

What will it cost to dismantle AUKUS subs?

What are the risks of radioactive leaks or criminal theft from stranded nuclear vessels in our port?

Finally, what will happen to the tonnes of highly radioactive nuclear waste generated by submarine nuclear reactors, and where will the nuclear waste be stored?

Until these and many other questions are answered, Hunter residents have a right to oppose a submarine base in our area.

Regards,

Kenneth Higgs,

Raymond Terrace.